On World Suicide Prevention Day, the federal government has announced $11.5-million for community based organizations to promote mental health and well-being and to tackle the systemic challenges and barriers from racism.

Health Minister Patty Hajdu says racism literally makes people sick with higher rates of illness, including mental illness, which she says isn’t surprising when people are excluded and face systemic barriers at every turn, including employment and access to healthcare and other community resources.

Hajdu notes that with COVID-19, suicide rates have gone up and people need more help and support.

She says the funding will help Canadians maintain and improve their mental health, including groups who are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 and living in conditions that make them more at risk for mental health issues.

{CJWW}